Hot air ballooning isn't exactly a high-energy activity. In fact, you'd probably burn more calories slapping together a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Still, though, on a recent trip to Albuquerque, N.M., I couldn't resist hopping in a balloon. After all, every October, the city hosts the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world's largest hot air balloon festival. How could I not go for a ride in such a hot air balloon mecca? If nothing else, floating that high in nothing but a straw basket would challenge my mental stamina.

I went up with four other passengers through Rainbow Ryders on a beautiful sunny morning and had a blast. My pilot, Brooke, narrated as we floated over the Rio Grande, dipping so low that we were practically skimming the muddy water. Other times, we floated above neighborhoods -- our maximum height was about 12,000 feet -- where only the barking of dogs shattered the silence. (Don't get me wrong: I love dogs, but I was shocked how loud they were.) The experience was so peaceful and serene (besides the dogs!) that I was disappointed when it ended. Yet I loved the after-flight treat: A glass of champagne.

Although I'd gotten a chance to chill out (which is, by the way, important for all fitness enthusiasts!), I was craving a blood-pumping workout, so I headed to Sandia Peak, another must-do in Albuquerque. In the winter, Sandia Peak turns into a ski resort, but in warm weather, it's a haven for hikers.

The main draw to Sandia Peak is its tram, the world's longest aerial tramway that covers 2.7 miles in terrain. I debated hiking to the top, but because time was short, I rode the tram and caught some incredible views. I was hoping to spot the black bear that had appeared earlier in the day but no such luck.

Once at the top, I hit the Crest Trail, an easy trail (not more than three miles round trip) that led to the Kiwanis House, a stone house with more impressive views. Other trails jutted off from there so I let my feet wander, and I'd recommend you do the same. Trails are well marked, and the forest cover provides shade from the sun.

My last recommendation if you find yourself in Albuquerque? Head to Church Street Cafe in Old Town for dinner. The food is fantastic -- I loved the Navajo taco -- but portions are huge so split something, especially since you'll be served piping hot sopapillas after dinner. You'll no doubt roll back to your hotel, but with Albuquerque's reputation as one of the fittest cities, you'll have no trouble finding more activities the next day to work off those calories.

If Albuquerque is one of the fittest cities, what city has taken top awards two years in a row for being the fattest city?